Statics

Statics is the branch of mechanics that deals with the analysis of bodies that do not undergo a state of motion. Static analysis of structures consists of reviewing applied forces and moments to determine the supports needed to carry predetermined loads, assuming the structures are rigid bodies, and therefore does not deform due to applied forces. Statics is a basic course for most engineers, but is particularly important in the fields of civil engineering, structural engineering, and architecture. Topics cover in typical statics courses include static equilibrium, centers of gravity, analysis of trusses, frames and machines, internal normal and shearing forces, bending moments, and torque, shear and bending moment diagrams, relations between distributed load, shear, and bending moment, friction, distributed forces, and area moments of inertia.